It was two months ago when the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach scolded him for missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause for Villa's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. As the in-form star swept in his second to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, are somehow only three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
This is a particularly tough proposition to address. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant in many games, while the victories have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the side had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a team which has just won 10 in a row, Villa look curiously susceptible – however at the moment the margins are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach seems to be to exchange chances with rivals before hoping Rogers to rescue them with some precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and it happened when facing United.
His opener came from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Can It Last?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.
A reversion to average could be the biggest rival the club have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, cannot maintain drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Could it be another reality where, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to finding the net regularly.
- The attacking talent might become the force he showed during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Maybe within that lies the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be leading a title charge while looking like a vital England player.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the hero faced the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.
